Doves are a common sight in many environments, known for their gentle cooing and presence. These birds exhibit unique nesting behaviors, particularly concerning the incubation of their eggs. Understanding how long doves remain on their eggs and the subsequent care of their young reveals a fascinating aspect of avian reproduction. This process involves dedicated parental roles and a specialized feeding method that supports the rapid development of their offspring.
The Incubation Period
Incubation for doves is approximately 14 days, beginning once the female has laid her clutch of typically two white eggs, laid one day apart. Parents apply consistent warmth, necessary for proper embryonic development.
While 14 days is a general guideline for many dove species, minor variations can occur. Consistent temperature and humidity maintained by the parent are important for successful embryonic development. Unattended eggs, especially in colder conditions, may not survive.
Parental Roles During Incubation
Both male and female doves actively participate in egg incubation, a shared responsibility distinct from many other bird species. This cooperative effort ensures eggs are almost continuously covered and warm. The male dove typically takes on duties during the day, from morning until late afternoon.
Following the male’s shift, the female dove assumes responsibility for the nest, sitting on the eggs throughout the night. This seamless transition maintains a stable temperature for the developing eggs. Male and female doves often appear similar, making it seem as though the same bird is always on the nest.
From Egg to Fledgling
After the approximately 14-day incubation period, dove eggs hatch, revealing helpless young called squabs. These altricial hatchlings are born with closed eyes, sparse down, and completely dependent on their parents for warmth and nourishment. For the first few days, both parent doves feed their squabs a unique, nutritious substance known as “crop milk.”
Crop milk, a protein and fat-rich secretion from the crop lining of both male and female doves, is regurgitated into the squabs’ mouths. This specialized diet supports the rapid growth of the young birds. As the squabs mature, around 3 to 10 days old, their diet shifts from primarily crop milk to softened seeds and grains, resembling the adult diet. Young doves fledge, or leave the nest, around 12 to 15 days after hatching, though they may not be proficient flyers. For another 5 to 9 days, fledglings remain close and continue to be fed by their parents, learning essential survival skills before becoming fully independent.